College football season is well underway and, while there might not be any Team USA athletes on the field, many can be found in the stands or glued to their TVs while cheering for their favorite school. Each week, we take a closer look at a big game through the eyes of Team USA athletes. This week's matchup features a heated Big Ten rivalry as University of Michigan (3-4) travels to face Michigan State Univeristy (6-1) in East Lansing, Michigan. To prepare, we asked Max Pacioretty and Tyler Clary (Michigan), and Ryan Miller (Michigan State), who they like in Saturday's game.
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Max Pacioretty
Sport: Ice Hockey
College/University: University of Michigan
What does this rivalry mean to alums?
The rivalry is more important to me now that I'm playing on a team with a former Spartan (Mike Weaver). He's not the biggest football fan, but it's great to get the chirping sparked through the football matchup.
What is your favorite college football memory?
Favorite football memory was obviously the first time I went to the Big House. You set your alarm for early in the morning and you leave the dorms and the campus transforms into a different planet. It's unlike any other place in the world with the crowds like that.
Who is/was your favorite college football player?
I liked Mike Hart a lot when I was at school. We used to hang out with a couple of the football players every now and then, and he was one of them. He was a really good guy and he was a great player on the team.
Best tailgate memory?
We always got the grill going on game days after practice, and Kevin Porter would cook up some hotdogs and burgers. And those were some of the best times I've had in my life.
Final score prediction?
I think Michigan will win, 27-3, because they have a lot to prove and are off to a slow start -- and it's the perfect game to turn it around.
 @RyanMiller3039 |
Ryan Miller
Sport: Ice Hockey
College/University: Michigan State University
What does this rivalry mean to alums?
Bragging rights are just the beginning of this rivalry. You grow up with a strong dislike of maize and blue.
What is your favorite college football memory?
Taking my brother to the MSU vs. UM game while he was on his official visit to MSU hockey as a recruit.
Who is/was your favorite college football player?
T.J. Duckett
What is your favorite tailgate food?
Homemade stews and soups people made
Best tailgate memory?
The first tailgate of the year hosted outside Munn Ice Arena
Final score prediction?
31-17, MSU
Why do you think Michigan State will win?
Better defense
 @TylerClary |
Tyler Clary
Sport: Swimming
College/University: University of Michigan
What does this rivalry mean to alums?
The same rivalry that a big brother and little brother possess!
What is your favorite college football memory?
My recruiting weekend at Michigan! The game was against Wisconsin and we crushed them. The trip had already been a blast, and winning the game made it that much better!
Who is/was your favorite college football player?
Chad Henne. He was the quarterback while I was in school.
What is your favorite tailgate food?
You can't beat a hotdog on game day!
Best tailgate memory?
Impromptu obstacle course races against the opposing team fans on the golf course!
Final score prediction?
34-33, Michigan!
Why do you think Michigan will win?
Because the big brother always wins!!!
